Cornell Feline Health Center Establishes Surveillance Initiative for H5N1 Avian Influenza in Cats

The Cornell Feline Health Center (CFHC) at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine has launched the CFHC Feline H5N1 Surveillance Consortium to address the threats posed by the H5N1 avian influenza virus to domestic cats. The initiative brings together leading researchers to investigate the virus's impact and improve public and animal health responses.

H5N1 avian influenza, known as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), poses significant global health concerns. While well-documented in wild birds, poultry, and humans, recent outbreaks have shown that dairy cattle and cats are also susceptible. Cats are affected severely, with a mortality rate of up to 70% among infected individuals. Potential sources of infection include exposure to wild birds, livestock, infected people, and consumption of unpasteurized milk or raw meats. The prevalence of asymptomatic infections in cats remains unknown.

Dr. Bruce Kornreich, DVM, Ph.D., CFHC Director, emphasized the urgent need for research into how the virus spreads among cats and their potential role in transmitting the virus to other animals or humans. With a large population of domestic cats in the U.S., particularly those in Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) and shelter programs, understanding their role in the ecology of H5N1 is crucial.

The consortium aims to determine the prevalence of active H5N1 infections in New York state community cats, evaluate serological evidence of exposure, conduct genomic analysis of viral samples, and study the virus’s hemagglutinin (HA) protein. The multidisciplinary team includes experts in virology, shelter medicine, and epidemiological surveillance, ensuring a comprehensive approach to research and data collection.

The initial focus will be on establishing a surveillance program within New York, utilizing shelter populations and veterinary clinics to monitor for infections. This proactive approach could eventually expand across the United States, providing a framework for understanding and managing feline H5N1 cases nationwide.

Funding from CFHC and resources from Cornell’s infrastructure, including the Animal Health Diagnostic Center, support the rapid development of this initiative. The CFHC aims to disseminate findings to enhance monitoring and control measures for H5N1 and protect both feline and public health. As the consortium evolves, collaboration with veterinary practices, academic institutions, and public health authorities will be integral to its success.